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Jalen Hurts puts name in transfer portal; potential destinations

After Alabama was blown out by Clemson in the CFP title game Monday night, Jalen Hurts officially put his name in the transfer portal, which is the new way of announcing that you’re looking at other schools.

This was no surprise after Hurts was benched and saw little action this year and the only meaningful playing time he got was in the SEC Championship game when Tua Tagovailoa went down. This announcement was expected after the title game and is now official.

Where should Hurts go?

Kentucky

Warning: I am a huge Kentucky fan

Kentucky just finished the best season in the history of the program with Terry Wilson at the helm. Wilson wasn’t outstanding but had his moments and is growing game by game. If Kentucky wanted to guarantee another 9+ win season, is Jalen Hurts the answer? I think so.

Benny Snell was by far the best player on the offensive side of the ball, setting the rushing record for the Cats and finishing behind only Herschel Walker and Tim Tebow in touchdowns scored all-time in the SEC. Hurts is what the Wildcats hope Terry Wilson can become.

The only question: Would Hurts stay in the SEC?

West Virginia

The Mountaineers just hired Neal Brown as their new head coach, and while Brown has no connections to Hurts, Brown likes to run an explosive offense and Hurts would be a great fit. Especially since Will Grier departed for the NFL. The playing time would be there and the playing style would be there.

Oklahoma

Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray, and Jalen Hurts?

The Sooners have had two Heisman trophy winners in two years, both obviously being QB”s. I think Hurts and Lincoln Riley would be a great fit. Hurts could put up big numbers with the Sooners offensive playing style in the Big 12.

FAU

Hurts has connections with Lane Kiffin who was the OC Hurts’ freshman year. He would start easily and would definitely attract eyes down to Boca Raton, Florida. The only problem would be playing in C-USA. Would he be able to attract scouts?

Auburn

With Jarrett Stidham departing for the NFL, playing time wouldn’t be an issue for Hurts and the playing style would easily fit. But, would he go from Alabama to Auburn and play in the SEC West, knowing he would get booed come Iron Bowl time?

That would be like someone going from Kentucky to Louisville. Oh wait, that happened.